Taberna del Alabardero

A Piece of Madrid in the Nation’s Capital

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While it’s centrally located, only locals really know about this authentic tapas place just steps away from the White House.

This restaurant will give you and your clients chance to relax. You won’t see any fast deals going on at this lazy downtown restaurant, just pitchers of fruity sangria and tiny plates of garlicky shrimp that demand to be eaten again and again. It’s quieter than any steakhouse, so you can actually talk about the business at hand.

For a casual lunch, we recommend ordering a few items off the tapas menu—we love the crispy Iberian Ham Croquettes and the restaurant’s paper-thin slices of Jamón Ibérico—and splitting a pan of paella. They serve both classic versions that are filled high with mussels and prawns, and unique options, like their black rice dish with grilled calamari and octopus.

For larger groups, ask about their private rooms, which can seat as many as sixty. Some are a little over the top—we think it adds to the charm of this place. It might not be your most upscale dinner in the city, but with moderate prices and a fun atmosphere it’s certainly a breath of fresh air.